You’d think that supporting your hometown football club would earn you some love—but for Ed Sheeran, it’s sparked a heated TikTok debate.
The global pop star, who’s long been a proud supporter of Ipswich Town, found himself in the middle of an online spat after it was revealed he’s once again been given a squad number by the club.
The Story Behind That No. 17 Shirt
So here’s the deal: Ed Sheeran owns a small 1.4% stake in Ipswich Town and has been closely tied to the club for years.
He’s previously sponsored their kits and even performed at their Portman Road stadium.
Since 2021, the club has been assigning him the No. 17 shirt as a symbolic gesture—except for last season when they were in the Premier League.
The shirts with his name and number on the back have actually been a successful merch item, helping bring in extra revenue.
In short, it’s a bit of fun, a nod to his loyalty, and a savvy commercial move for the club.
Not Everyone’s a Fan
But not everyone’s seeing it that way. A TikToker who goes by “Davoooo” shared a video—now with over 700,000 views—calling the decision “embarrassing” and labelling Ipswich a “tinpot” club.
He couldn’t wrap his head around why a global music star was being treated like part of the actual playing squad.
“This is genuinely so embarrassing and so tinpot from Ipswich Town,” he said in the video.
“The fact that this person even wants a number is so entitled it’s unbelievable… The reason behind this is genuinely baffling.”
According to him, handing a squad number to a celebrity fan—even one with local roots—made the club look small and unserious.
Ed Sheeran Claps Back
Ed wasn’t about to let that criticism slide.
In true Sheeran fashion, he kept it light but made his point clear: “I bet you’re fun at parties bruvva,” he replied.
“I didn’t ask for it btw—they offered back in 2021 and it’s been this since.
The shirts sell a fair bit so brings in profit to the club. It’s really not that deep.”
Short, sharp, and Britishly polite with a side of sarcasm.
A Hometown Fan Living the Dream
When Sheeran bought his stake in Ipswich last year, he shared just how meaningful it was for him.
“It’s any football fan’s dream to be an owner of the club they support,” he posted on Instagram. “I feel so grateful for this opportunity.”
He made it clear he’s not trying to be a decision-maker at the club: “I’m not a voting shareholder or a board member.
This is just me putting some money into the club I love and them returning the gesture.”
He even joked about it, adding, “Please don’t get onto me with signing suggestions or tactics lol.”
Ipswich Back in the Championship
Following their relegation from the Premier League, Ipswich Town is set to kick off their Championship season with an away match against Birmingham on Friday night. And while the team is getting back to business, the debate around Sheeran’s shirt lingers on social media.
But for the club and Ed, it seems to be more about community, loyalty, and connection—something that goes far beyond a squad number.